This is a city rich with history and culture. Located 40 kms from Agra, the city of Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal empire between 1570 and 1586. But as abruptly as it had been built, it was abandoned. A popular legend is attached to the city's conception. According to it, Emperor Akbar was without a male heir, and therefore, made a pilgrimage to seek the blessings of the powerful saint Sheikh Salim Chisti. His prayer was fulfilled, and soon, a son was born to him. In honour of the saint, Akbar named the prince Salim, and decided to found a new city to celebrate his birth. And thus, the magnificent Fatehpur Sikri, the new capital, came into being. The city was intended to embody the noble ideals, and the humanitarian bent of this dynamic emperor. Although a Muslim, Akbar was famous for his incredible tolerance toward other religions, and he is said to have indulged in a great deal of study and discussion in this field, in his new capital. Courtesy of India Tourism Board